Tech

Crash Detection, a problem for emergency services

One of the most interesting new features of the new iPhone and Apple Watch is Crash Detection. We already told you about it at the time as one of the points on which Apple focused when presenting the iPhone 14, the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Apple Watch Ultra. Those from Cupertino, after having received feedback on the usefulness of their devices in emergency situations, in which it is true that a connected device can make a huge difference, decided to move forward in this direction.

Thus, the new models of iPhone and Apple Watch have a set of a gyroscopic unit, an accelerometer capable of accurately detecting movements with a very high G load and the necessary software to constantly monitor the readings of both elements. , in order toautomatically and immediately identify any type of collision, either front, rear, side or if we have overturned. This, if due to circumstances we find ourselves unconscious, is a great measure of security.

Upon detecting a collision, Crash Detection starts a 10-second countdown and, if not canceled by the user, the device will automatically contact the emergency services and, additionally, it will also inform our emergency contacts (if we have them). previously defined, of course). Therefore, we will send a distress signal with our exact location even if we have lost consciousness at that moment.

Crash Detection, a problem for emergency services

Seen like this it sounds wonderful, of course, everyone would like to have something like that. However, and over the months, we have learned of some cases of false positives, like that Crash Detection can be activated if we get on a roller coaster. And yes, it is true that this can be an extreme experience, but unless our hearts stop with shock, it seems unlikely that we will need assistance getting off the ride.

As we can read in Gizchina, it seems that the problem is more widespread than it might appear at first, to the point that Crash Detection is starting to become a problem for emergency services around the world.. For example, a report from the Kita-Alps, Nagano, Japan fire department states that between December 16 and January 23 alone, it received no less than 134 Crash Detection communications that turned out to be false positives, most of them they of people who were skiing.

The intention behind Crash Detection is very positive, and once polished it will surely be an essential technology that other manufacturers will surely adopt. However, as of today it seems that the system tests were not extensive enough to identify all (or at least the most popular) activities in which Crash Detection could fail, in order to look for solutions to such errors. A 10 to Apple for the idea, but for the moment a fail for the evaluation of its operation before its launch.

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